Showing compassion to a world in disarray

U.S. Air Force Airmen lend a helping hand, showing compassion for one another. Compassion is picking up on the subtle cues of friends and co-workers; looking out for your wingmen should extend beyond the battlefield. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Airman 1st Class Cassandra Whitman/Released)

“If compassion was the motivating factor behind all of our decisions, would our world not be a completely different place?” –Sheryl Crow

In my opinion, everyone needs compassion, but few people show it.

Being in the military, we are taught not to show weakness. Don’t cry, push through pain, conceal all of your feelings and doubts and just do your job.

That’s not how I view the world. It’s not how I operate, and no amount of negativity can take the compassion I have for people out of me.

Compassion is picking up on the subtle cues of friends and co-workers. It’s noticing when people can’t find the words to stand up for themselves, so you do it for them. It’s lending a hand to those who ask and seeking to help those who don’t.

It’s learning a new skill to help a friend out or going the extra mile to find the answer to a question you don’t know.

It’s leaving a sticky note on someone’s desk that says, “I appreciate you,” because you can tell they are going through a difficult time.

Most importantly, compassion is being there for everyone, not just friends or family, but even the stranger on the street needing directions.

The Airman’s Creed says “I will never leave an Airman behind.”

That doesn’t just apply on the battlefield. That also applies to everyday life. You look out for your wingmen, you hold them accountable and you lend a hand when needed.

Don’t lose yourself in a world filled with hate. Don’t lose yourself in military life. Stay true to your values and morals.

Find the compassion for others that lives in you. You just might change the world.